MAT 0024:  Elementary Algebra
Fall 2009 - 415

Please see instructor’s syllabus.

Instructor Web Page: http://it.spcollege.edu/course_info/
 

Dean:  Sharon Griggs         

Office Location:  SP–SA 215

Office Number:  727-341-4305

 

Academic Chair:  Tyrone Clinton

Office Location:  SP–SA 215

Office Number:  727-341-3573
 

Course Description:
4 Credits

This course is a study of the basic skills and concepts of elementary algebra from the view of a college student who needs an understanding of basic algebra. Major topics include language and operations on sets, operations on signed numbers, simple linear equations and inequalities in one variable, operations on polynomials (including beginning techniques of factoring), integer exponents, brief introduction to radicals, introduction to graphing, and applications

 

Course Goals: 

1.   The student will demonstrate knowledge of algebraic concepts, properties and terminology when working with the real number system.

 2.   The student will demonstrate mastery of algebraic algorithms relative to subsets of the real numbers, numerical expressions, algebraic expressions, linear equations and inequalities, quadratic equations and graphing of linear equations by applying the necessary algebraic manipulations.

 

Course Objectives:

1.   The student will demonstrate knowledge of algebraic concepts, properties and terminology when working with the real number system by:

                 a.    using precise mathematical language.
                 b.    recognizing algebraic expressions, like terms, numerical coefficients and
                        polynomials.
                 c.    developing the real number system using sets, introducing irrationals with the
                        radical symbol and integer exponents.

2.   The student will demonstrate mastery of algebraic algorithms relative to subsets of the real numbers, numerical expressions, algebraic expressions, linear equations and inequalities, quadratic equations and graphing of linear equations by applying the necessary algebraic manipulations by:

                 a.    applying the order of operations agreement to computations, including multiple
                        grouping symbols.                        
                 b.    using algebraic expressions, like terms, numerical coefficients and  
                        polynomials. 
                 c.    defining and/or recognizing the solution of linear equations in one variable
                        involving rational numbers.                   
                 d.    solving, graph (on a number line) and checking the solutions of linear equations
                        in one variable involving rational numbers. 
                 e.    determining if a linear equation in one variable is a conditional equation, an
                        identity or has no solution.                
                 f.     solving literal equations.
                 g.    translating real world problems into linear equations and solve.
                 h.    applying the rules of exponents to algebraic expressions involving integer
                        exponents.
                  i.    using scientific notation in calculations involving very large or very small
                        measurements.
                  j.    solving and/or graphing (on a number line) simple linear inequalities in one
                        variable by applying the properties of inequalities.
                 k.    performing beginning techniques of factoring and other operations on
                        polynomials including simple quadratics.
                 l.     solving equations by factoring.
                 m.   calculating the slope of the line passing through two given points.
                 n.    graphing linear equations in two variables by plotting points, by the intercept
                        method and by the slope-intercept method.
                 o.    simplifying, multiplying and dividing rational expressions.
                 p.    simplifying, adding, subtracting, and multiplying radicals.


Prerequisites: 
All students must possess basic computer skills.   MAT0012 or appropriate score on mathematics placement test.

College Preparatory Credits (0000 designations) may not be used toward graduation credits.

 

•  Validation Code Kit (Academic Systems/Plato:  Part #97609768KIT)
•  Access to a computer and the internet (https://asalgebra.platoweb.com/)
•  Headphones with a mini-jack for audio within the software.
•  Textbook can be purchased if needed (the course online curriculum contains an e-book version)
 

Please see your instructor’s syllabus.
 

Important Dates:  http://www.spcollege.edu/webcentral/admit/dates0910.htm
Deadline to drop with refund:  8/28/2009
Deadline to withdraw without refund: 10/29/2009

Financial Aid: http://www.spcollege.edu/central/SSFA/HomePage/calendar.htm
 

Academic Systems Access:

This class is taught using a software program called Academic Systems Algebra (ASA), which is a multimedia interactive full-course curriculum designed and delivered by Academic Systems Corp., a division of PLATO Learning.  Students should use the internet to access class-related resources only.  Students using computers and the internet on campus may be subject to electronic monitoring. 

 

Since the subject matter is delivered by your interaction with the computer software, keep in mind this is neither self-paced nor and independent study class.  It is guided, student-centered, computer-delivered curriculum which fosters early completion of a course.  This is not a self-paced or independent study class.

 

Internet Usage and Electronic Devices:

Students will use the internet on campus to access class-related resources only. Students using computers and the internet on campus may be subject to electronic monitoring. Inappropriate use will result in disciplinary action.

 

All electronic devices such as cell phones, beepers, pagers, and related devices are to be turned off prior to entering any classroom, library or laboratory. Use of any device in these areas is a violation of College Policy and subject to disciplinary action.

 

Calculator Policy:

Calculators are prohibited on all tests and the final exam.

 

Class Calendar Policy:

Students are responsible for following the class schedule.  Consult your schedule before you start a new topic.  (Note:  some topics are out of order and test dates have already been scheduled.)

 

Tutoring:

Tutoring in math, reading, and writing is available free of charge, either by appointment or by an on-call tutor in the Learning Commons (TL104). Ask your instructor for more information.

 

Note:  The free assistance offered by our student tutors is NOT guaranteed by St. Petersburg College.  Although the college attempts to ensure that you receive quality instruction from our tutors, they are students just like you.  We encourage our tutors to inform students whenever they are uncertain about a topic.  If at any time you are unsure about the instruction you have received from a tutor, contact your instructor for more assistance.  If you are unhappy with the service you have received from a tutor, please contact the Academic Chair.

 

Using Angel:

In order to better serve our faculty and students we are asking that both the instructor and student use the logoff button when completing online course work. By logging off, ANGEL server space is freed, and therefore, optimizing the system. In addition, logging off will more accurately record students’ time involved in the course.

 

Technical Support: 

ANGEL requirements: http://www.spcollege.edu/ecampus/help/technical/index.htm

 

SPC helpdesk:  727-341-4357 onlinehelp@spcollege.edu or http://www.spcollege.edu/helpdesk/

 

PLATO:  http://support.plato.com/instructional/ASalgebra.asp

 

  

The college-wide attendance policy is included in the Syllabus Addendum http://www.spcollege.edu/webcentral/policies.htm. The policy notes that each instructor is to exercise professional judgment and define “active participation” in class (and therefore “attendance”), and publish that definition in each syllabus.  For this class, attendance is defined as the completion of at least one Evaluate quiz, test review, or test per week, in addition to attending at least 80% of scheduled class meetings.  Students not able to complete one of these assignments in a particular week should notify their instructor immediately.  Students that do not meet the active class participation requirement will be withdrawn from the course with a failing grade.

 

The last day a student can withdraw from this course and receive a grade of W is October 29, 2009.

 

It is the responsibility of the student to withdraw from the course themselves by the withdrawal deadline.  Any student wishing to withdraw from the course should do so online at: https://my.spcollege.edu.  In accordance with college policy, no student can withdraw from a course after the withdrawal deadline. Do NOT ask your instructor to withdraw you from the course.  It is your responsibility.

 

Third attempts: Students attempting this course for the third time (or more) cannot withdraw (State of Florida regulation), and failing to meet the attendance requirement will result in a grade of WF.

 

Students enrolled after the withdrawal deadline will receive one of the grades below.

Grading scale:

90+ A
80 – 89 B
70 – 79 C
<70 F or N

Note:  Students must pass the final exam with a 70% or better to pass the class.  An N (not complete) will only be given to those students who put significant effort into the course and comply with the attendance policy.  Continuing students must consult their current instructor regarding the possible transfer of grades from a previous semester

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES will a student receive a W grade after the withdrawal deadline. Students on their third attempt cannot withdraw from the class after the first week.

Late Assignment and Make-Up Policy
Students who miss a test, may request from their instructor that their missed test score be replaced with their score from the Final Exam.

Extra Credit
Extra credit is subject to the discretion of each individual instructor. 

All course work must be completed by the appropriate due dates.  A grade of zero will be assigned to any course requirement not completed.
 

Assigned Readings/Homework Assignments
Students are expected to read each assigned chapter or resource and complete any and all assigned homework. Except the Fundamentals (F lessons) and the Essentials (E lessons), the computer software assigns homework according to your progress in the Explain and Apply modules.  The homework assigned is the minimum amount of work that should be completed by the student. Completion of additional work to further comprehension of particular concepts is recommended. Students who choose not to complete assigned homework will struggle in class. All homework should be done neatly and orderly in your notebook.

Quizzes (Evaluates) – three attempts (Average is 20 % of final grade)
At the end of each section, take the computer quiz (called Evaluate) in class.  You may take the Evaluate quiz up to 3 times per topic, but the computer will count only your highest score.  Upon completion of the course, these scores will be averaged together for your quiz average.  Students are responsible for completing these quizzes/evaluates in a timely manner according to the due dates.   Any quizzes not taken by the final exam period will be assigned a grade of zero (0).

Unit Reviews (Average is 30 % of final grade)
There are four unit reviews.  You will have multiple attempts on each review, as determined by your instructor.  You must pass each Unit Review with a 70% or higher before your Unit Test will be available.

Unit Tests – one attempt (40 % of final grade)
There are four in-class Unit Tests.  You should take at least one Evaluate quiz in each assigned topic before taking a test for those topics.  You must also pass the Unit Review with a 70% or higher before your Unit Test will be available.  Show all of your work for the test in order to receive credit.  Students are responsible for completing tests according to the due dates.  Students have only one attempt on each test.  You may not use your book, notes or any other resources while testing, including other students.  Academic honesty policies will be strictly enforced. It is the responsibility of the student to act above suspicion while taking tests.

Class Participation
Students are expected to participate in class discussions and assignments.

Final Exam (10% of final grade)
Students must take the final examination on or before the assigned date on the class schedule.  All students must pass the final exam with a 70% or better to pass the class.  Students should consult their instructor regarding eligibility for a retake exam.  The State Department of Education prohibits the use of calculators on this exit exam. 

All OSSD students must provide appropriate documentation if they need special arrangements for testing.
 

Course Policies and Procedures:
The student is responsible for knowing all course policies listed in the syllabus and discussed in class.

 

Class Participation and Etiquette: 
The student is responsible for participating in class and coming to class prepared.  The student will respect the rights of other students to learn.  The student will communicate with others in a courteous and respectful manner at all times, including the instructor.

 

Assignment Due Dates and Procedures: 
The student is responsible for knowing when assignments are due, the formats required, and the procedures for completing and submitting assignments.

 

Academic Honesty:
The student is expected to know the SPC Academic Honesty Policy and to act above suspicion at all times with regard to academic issues.

 

Attendance:
The student is responsible for attending class on time, paying attention in class, and remaining in class until dismissed.  The student is responsible for reviewing the attendance record in ANGEL for inaccuracies and excessive absences.
 

Course Policies and Procedures:
The instructor is responsible for providing a syllabus the first day of class that clearly explains all course policies. The instructor will provide a Student Survey of Instruction for fall and spring semesters.  The instructor will post grades in MySPC by the end of the semester.

 

Class Participation and Etiquette: 
The instructor will create a learning environment in the classroom that engages students and facilitates learning.  The instructor is responsible for coming to class prepared.  The instructor will enforce the right of all students to learn.  The instructor will communicate with students in a courteous and respectful manner at all times.  The instructor will respond to emails within 48 hours, 5 of 7 days per week.

 

Assignment Due Dates and Procedures: 
The instructor will provide clear guidelines and information regarding when assignments are due, the format required, and the procedure for completing and submitting assignments.  The instructor will grade all assignments within 7 days of each due date, with additional time for late assignments, if accepted.

 

Academic Honesty:
The instructor will enforce SPC Academic Honesty policies at all times.

 

Attendance:
The instructor will begin and end class on time.  The instructor will maintain student attendance records in ANGEL for students to access and review.  The instructor will maintain weekly office hours or come to class one half hour early for questions, as determined by college policy.

 

The student survey of instruction is administered in courses each semester.  It is designed to improve the quality of instruction at St. Petersburg College.  All student responses are confidential and anonymous and will be used solely for the purpose of performance improvement.